The carabiner is Very small and lightweight - 1 1/2", maybe 2" long? I think it's actually smaller than the scissor clips I use. And yes, I can put that on a regular lead for a minimal extra fee.
My standard scissor clips are probably 2 1/2" to 3" long, but also lightweight.
I always hated the banging of front clip harnesses, too - part of the reason I stopped using them. That, and they didn't work for Inara.
![Wink :wink:](./images/smiles/wink3.gif)
You might want to try clipping the leash to the front ring, but then running the leash under that front strap. Still works like a front clip harness but no banging.
Or buy one of my leashes. They're magic and fix all woes.
![Wink :wink:](./images/smiles/wink3.gif)